TYLER COUNTY, Texas — Authorities have arrested Aaron McDonald, 17, of Colmesneil, after he allegedly threatened to carry out a shooting at Colmesneil High School in Tyler County. The arrest comes after multiple students reported hearing the teenager make disturbing threats, including a statement about “killing everyone in this school.”
According to the Tyler County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were alerted after students overheard McDonald’s threats while inside a classroom at Colmesneil High School. Law enforcement quickly coordinated with Superintendent Sharon Tule, who confirmed that the suspect, a Colmesneil Independent School District (CISD) student, was not on campus at the time the threats were reported.
Following an investigation, deputies took McDonald into custody. He has been formally charged in connection with the threats, and authorities emphasized that all threats against schools are treated with the utmost seriousness to ensure the safety of students, teachers, and staff.
McDonald’s bond has been set at $50,000. Court documents indicate that several conditions were attached to his release, including a strict prohibition from entering any CISD property.
The Tyler County Sheriff’s Office has not released additional details about McDonald’s motive or whether he had access to weapons at the time the threats were made. Investigators are continuing to review the case to determine if further charges are warranted.
In a statement, school officials reassured parents and the community that the situation was handled swiftly. “The safety of our students and staff remains our highest priority,” Superintendent Tule said. “We will continue to work closely with law enforcement to ensure that Colmesneil ISD remains a safe and secure place for learning.”
Authorities are urging the public, especially students, to continue reporting suspicious behavior or threats immediately. Law enforcement noted that in this case, the quick response of those who heard the threats allowed deputies to intervene before any harm could occur.
The incident comes amid growing national concern over school safety and underscores the importance of vigilance in protecting local campuses.
